Queer & Curious
A little workplace inclusion. A little history. A little personal.
A whole lot queer.
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Recent Posts
Worcester & HIV Care | Queer Worcester Icons 2026
While the AIDS Crisis made headlines in large cities like New York City, smaller cities like Worcester were not spared. With little government or funding infrastructure, resources for HIV care and research were scarce. Worcester’s community response was bolstered by University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School (UMass) role at the forefront of HIV clinical research and care.
Frances Perkins | Queer Worcester Icons 2026
The workers’ rights we benefit from today are grounded in the legacy of Frances Perkins.
Elizabeth Bishop | Queer Worcester Icons 2026
While she avoided the public spotlight, Elizabeth Bishop’s lasting legacy places her among one of the “one of the most important American poets” of the 20th century.
John O’Reilly & James Tellin | Queer Worcester Icons 2026
For 60 years collage artist, John O’Reilly (1930-2021) and sculptor James “Jim” Tellin (1930 – 2023) lived in Worcester. John and Jim’s Worcester homes were central to their art and community. While they seldom collaborated on works, they would exchange ideas and critique.
“One Eyed” Charley Parkhurst | Queer Worcester Icons 2026
“One-Eyed” Charley Parkhurst (1812 – 1879) caught national acclaim as a skillful stagecoach driver. Many children’s stories claim Charley as a female icon of the Wild West, which simultaneously uplifts an important story while diminishing his likely queerness.
Celebrating Queer Icons for Worcester Pride Month 2026
LGBTQIA+ inclusion is important all year-round. In recognition of Worcester’s Pride celebrations throughout September, I’m celebrating queer icons who called Worcester home and meaningful moments for the LGBTQIA+ community that happened here.